McKenzie endorsed by former rival in statehouse race

ST. PETERSBURG-- The Rev. Charles McKenzie (left in photos), a Democratic contender in the Florida House District 55 race, has been endorsed by his onetime opponent, former City Council Member Earnest Williams (right).

McKenzie "is a dedicated Democrat with a resume of public service and he will represent us well in Tallahassee," said Williams in a statement today. " I would expect nothing less from someone with his record of public service."

McKenzie will face State Rep. Darryl Rouson in the August Democratic primary.

In many ways, the endorsement isn't a surprise. Debates between Williams and Rouson were so tense during the March special election that the bickering often overshadowed the issues. Not only did the men publicly insult one another, Williams also filed a police complaint against Rouson that alleged Rouson threatened to injure him.

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